National/World News

The head of the state AFL-CIO is criticizing Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker's trip to New York City, which will include an appearance at a fundraiser for Republican gubernatorial hopeful Rob Astorino tonight.

Walker attracted union scourge in 2011 when he led an effort to curtail collective bargaining rights in Wisconsin, which led to major protests staged in the state's Capitol and an unsuccessful attempt to recall him.

This afternoon, New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said Walkers "extremist attacks" are "an affront to all hardworking men and women."

"New York’s public sector, private sector and building trades unions have a clear and unified message for Governor Walker – your divisive and failed policies are simply not welcome here in our state," Cilento said in a statement.

More from Cilento: "Thankfully, Governor Walker’s visit is short. He and his record of job losses and economic decline will soon be gone. While he’s here though, he should be sure to thank all the union workers that will be serving him, ensuring his travel and keeping him safe."

Astorino was asked about the union criticism at an event in Manhattan this afternoon.

“He obviously is attacking the out-of-control expenses,” Astorino said of Walker, according to the New York Observer. “You can question the way he gets there.”